LT commends Local Tattoo Artist
By: Nonnette C. Bennett, photo courtesy of LT
La Trinidad Mayor Roderick Awingan, Vice Mayor Guiller Galwan, and the Sangguniang Bayan members presented a commendation to Barangay Puguis resident Wilma Gaspili for her artistry in hand-tap tattoo on Monday 29 September 2025 during the flag-raising ceremony.
The resolution honored Ms. Gaspili’s significant contribution to heritage preservation, particularly in Benguet tattooing, serving as a cultural icon as a hand-tap tattooist or “mambabatek”, and one of the few living testaments of this tradition.
“This is a manifestation of the municipality’s appreciation of local culture and the arts,” said Mayor Roderick Awingan.
Also known as Ate Wamz, she draws inspiration from Apo Anno, one of Benguet’s tribal leaders in the 12th century whose entire body was covered with tattoos.
“Batek” is a traditional tattooing practice by hand tapping the needle in the Cordilleras, which historically signified social and economic status, accomplishments in warfare, and was a visual record of a person’s journey in life.
